Philodendron prince of orange shows its brightest new leaves when given bright, indirect light. This stunning hybrid is a favorite among houseplant lovers because of its ever-changing foliage colors. You will see shades of orange, copper, and green all on the same plant at once.
The plant is not actually a prince, but it does rule the heart of many collectors. It is a self-heading hybrid, which means it grows upright instead of vining. This makes it perfect for desks, shelves, and tabletops where you want a pop of warm color.
Why Choose The Philodendron Prince Of Orange
This plant is a showstopper, but it is also surprisingly easy to care for. It does not need constant attention or a green thumb to thrive. The main appeal is the color show that happens as each new leaf unfurls.
New leaves emerge a bright, almost neon orange. As they age, they shift to a salmon or copper tone. Finally, they settle into a deep, rich green. Because the plant grows continuously, you get all these colors at once.
Key Features And Growth Habits
Unlike climbing philodendrons, this variety grows from a central rosette. The stems are short and the leaves point outward. It can reach about two feet tall and wide indoors, which is a nice, manageable size.
It is a hybrid, so you will not find it growing in the wild. It was created in a lab to get that unique coloration. The care is similar to other philodendrons, but the light requirements are a bit more specific to keep the colors vivid.
Light Requirements For Vibrant Color
Getting the light right is the most important part of caring for this plant. If you give it too little light, the new leaves will come in green instead of orange. If you give it too much direct sun, the leaves will scorch.
The sweet spot is bright, indirect light. Think of a spot near an east-facing window or a few feet back from a south or west window. You want the plant to see the sky but not the sun itself.
Signs Your Plant Is Not Getting Enough Light
You can tell if your plant is struggling with light levels by looking at the new growth. Here are some common signs:
- New leaves emerge green instead of orange
- The stems get long and leggy
- The plant leans heavily toward the window
- The leaves are smaller than they should be
If you see these signs, move the plant to a brighter location. Do it gradually over a week to avoid shocking the plant. A sudden move from low light to very bright light can cause leaf burn.
Can You Use Grow Lights
Absolutely. Grow lights are a great option if you do not have a bright window. A standard LED grow light works well. Keep the light on for about 10 to 12 hours a day. Position the light about 12 inches above the plant.
You do not need a fancy, expensive setup. A simple clip-on grow light is often enough. Just watch the plant to see how it responds. If the leaves start to pale or bleach, move the light further away.
Watering Your Philodendron Prince Of Orange
Watering is where many people make mistakes with this plant. It likes consistent moisture, but it hates soggy roots. The goal is to keep the soil evenly moist, not wet.
The best way to check is to stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it is time to water. If it feels damp, wait a day or two. This simple test prevents overwatering, which is the most common cause of death.
How Often To Water
There is no fixed schedule that works for everyone. The frequency depends on your home’s temperature, humidity, and the type of pot you use. A general rule is to water every 7 to 10 days during the growing season.
In the winter, the plant grows slower and needs less water. You might only water every 10 to 14 days. Always check the soil first. Do not just water on a calendar schedule.
Water Quality Matters
This plant can be sensitive to chemicals in tap water. Fluoride and chlorine can cause leaf tips to turn brown. If you have hard tap water, consider using filtered water or letting the tap water sit out overnight.
Rainwater or distilled water is ideal if you have it. But do not stress too much. If your tap water is fine for you to drink, it is usually fine for the plant. Just be aware of the potential for browning tips.
Soil And Potting Mix
This philodendron needs a chunky, well-draining mix. It does not like to sit in dense, heavy soil. The roots need air to breathe, and the water needs to flow through easily.
A good mix is a combination of potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark. This mimics the airy conditions of its natural rainforest floor. You can buy an aroid mix or make your own.
Simple DIY Potting Mix Recipe
Making your own mix is easy and saves money. Here is a simple recipe that works well:
- Mix 2 parts standard potting soil
- Add 1 part perlite for drainage
- Add 1 part orchid bark for aeration
- Mix thoroughly and moisten slightly before potting
This mix will hold some moisture while allowing excess to drain away. It also provides the chunky texture that the roots love. You should repot your plant every 1 to 2 years to refresh the soil.
When To Repot
You will know it is time to repot when you see roots coming out of the drainage holes. You might also notice the soil drying out very quickly after watering. Spring is the best time to repot, as the plant is entering its active growth phase.
Choose a pot that is only 1 to 2 inches larger than the current one. Going too big can lead to waterlogging. Make sure the new pot has drainage holes. This is non-negotiable for this plant.
Temperature And Humidity Needs
As a tropical plant, it prefers warm conditions. The ideal temperature range is between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It does not like cold drafts or sudden temperature swings.
Keep it away from air conditioning vents, heaters, and drafty windows. If the temperature drops below 55°F (13°C), the plant can suffer damage. It is not frost-tolerant at all.
Humidity Requirements
Average household humidity is usually fine for this plant. It will appreciate a bit more humidity, though. You can increase humidity by grouping plants together or using a pebble tray with water.
You do not need a humidifier unless your home is very dry. If the leaf edges start to get crispy, that is a sign of low humidity. A simple misting is not very effective, so try a pebble tray instead.
Fertilizing For Healthy Growth
Regular feeding during the growing season helps this plant produce those vibrant new leaves. It is a moderate feeder. You do not need to overdo it with fertilizer.
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. You can use a general houseplant fertilizer or one formulated for aroids. Feed every 4 to 6 weeks during spring and summer.
Fertilizing Schedule
Here is a simple schedule to follow:
- Spring: Start feeding once a month
- Summer: Continue feeding once a month
- Fall: Reduce feeding to every 6-8 weeks
- Winter: Stop fertilizing completely
Over-fertilizing can cause salt buildup in the soil. This can burn the roots and cause leaf tips to brown. If you see a white crust on the soil surface, flush the soil with water to remove excess salts.
Pruning And Maintenance
This plant does not require heavy pruning. It naturally grows in a neat, compact rosette. However, you may want to remove old or damaged leaves to keep it looking its best.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Cut the leaf stem as close to the base as possible. This encourages new growth and keeps the plant tidy. You can also remove any leaves that have lost their color or are yellowing.
Cleaning The Leaves
Dust can accumulate on the large leaves, blocking light absorption. Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth every few weeks. This keeps the plant photosynthesizing efficiently and looking shiny.
You can also give the plant a gentle shower in the sink to wash off dust. Just make sure the water is lukewarm, not cold. Let it drip dry before putting it back in its spot.
Common Problems And Solutions
Even with good care, you might run into a few issues. Most problems are easy to fix if you catch them early. Here are the most common issues with this plant.
Yellowing Leaves
Yellow leaves are usually a sign of overwatering. Check the soil moisture immediately. If the soil is soggy, let it dry out completely before watering again. If the roots are mushy, you may need to repot in fresh, dry soil.
Yellowing can also happen if the plant is getting too much direct sun. Move it to a shadier spot. Remove the yellow leaves so the plant can focus energy on healthy growth.
Brown Leaf Tips
Brown, crispy tips are often caused by low humidity or fluoride in tap water. Increase humidity around the plant. Switch to filtered or distilled water if you suspect a water quality issue.
Over-fertilizing can also cause brown tips. Flush the soil with water to wash out excess fertilizer. Then, adjust your feeding schedule to be more conservative.
Pests
This plant can occasionally get pests like spider mites, mealybugs, or scale. Check the undersides of the leaves regularly. If you see pests, treat them immediately with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Isolate the plant from your other plants to prevent the pests from spreading. Repeat the treatment every few days until the pests are gone. A healthy plant is less likely to get pests, so keep up with good care.
Propagation Methods
Propagating this plant is a bit different from vining philodendrons. Since it does not have long stems with nodes, you cannot take simple stem cuttings. The best way to propagate is by division.
When you repot, you can divide the plant. Gently separate the root ball into smaller sections, making sure each section has some roots and leaves. Pot each section in its own container with fresh soil.
Step-By-Step Division
Here is how to divide your plant successfully:
- Water the plant a day before dividing
- Remove the plant from its pot
- Gently tease apart the roots with your fingers
- Use a clean knife to cut if the roots are tangled
- Pot each division in a small pot with fresh mix
- Water lightly and place in bright, indirect light
The new divisions may wilt for a few days, but they should recover quickly. Keep the soil slightly moist but not wet. Do not fertilize for at least a month after dividing.
Is The Philodendron Prince Of Orange Toxic
Yes, this plant is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. It contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation in the mouth and throat. Keep it out of reach of curious cats, dogs, and small children.
The toxicity is not usually fatal, but it can cause discomfort. Symptoms include drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. If your pet eats a large amount, contact your vet immediately.
Wear gloves when pruning or handling the plant if you have sensitive skin. The sap can cause a mild rash in some people. Wash your hands after touching the plant just to be safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my philodendron prince of orange turning green?
This usually means it is not getting enough light. Move it to a brighter location with more indirect sunlight. The new leaves should come back orange once the light levels are sufficient.
How do I make my philodendron prince of orange more orange?
Provide bright, indirect light and avoid over-fertilizing. Too much fertilizer can cause leaves to stay green. Keep the plant in a warm spot with good airflow to encourage the orange pigmentation.
Is the philodendron prince of orange a fast grower?
It is a moderate grower. With the right light and water, it will produce new leaves regularly. It grows faster in spring and summer and slows down in the winter months.
Can I grow this plant outdoors?
Yes, if you live in a warm, humid climate (USDA zones 10-11). It can grow outdoors in a shaded spot. Just make sure it never gets direct afternoon sun, which can burn the leaves.
What is the difference between prince of orange and McColley’s finale?
They look very similar. The main difference is that McColley’s finale tends to have darker, red-orange new leaves. The prince of orange has a brighter, more yellow-orange tone. Both have the same care requirements.
Final Thoughts On Care
The philodendron prince of orange is a rewarding plant that brings a unique splash of color to any room. Its care is not complicated once you understand its basic needs. The most important factors are bright, indirect light and proper watering.
Do not be afraid to adjust your care routine based on what the plant tells you. If the leaves are pale, give it more light. If the soil is wet, water less often. This plant is forgiving and will bounce back from minor mistakes.
With a little attention, you will be rewarded with a constant display of orange, copper, and green foliage. It is a plant that never looks boring, as every new leaf adds to the vibrant mix. Enjoy watching your prince grow and show off its royal colors.
Remember to check the leaves regularly for pests and dust. A clean plant is a happy plant. And a happy plant will keep producing those stunning orange leaves for years to come.
If you are new to houseplants, this is a great choice. It is more forgiving than some rare aroids but still offers a spectacular show. It is a great middle ground between easy and exotic.
Give it a spot where you can see it every day. The color change is fasinating to watch. You will find yourself checking for new leaves every morning, excited to see what shade they will be.
One last tip: do not rotate the plant too often. It likes to settle into a position. If you move it around, it may drop leaves or slow down growth. Find a good spot and let it stay there.
With these tips, your philodendron prince of orange will thrive. It will become a focal point in your plant collection. Its warm colors will brighten up even the dullest corner of your home.
So go ahead and give this plant a try. It is a reliable performer that delivers on its promises. You will not be dissapointed with the constant color and easy care. It is truly a gem among philodendrons.